“The Lord Giveth, and the Lord Taketh Away”

New Talavan is a Hare Krishna farm community in the rural Gulf Coast area of southern Mississippi.

It was caught in the wake of Katrina recently, but survived serious damage. Residents there are now distributing lots of free, nourishing Hare Krishna food to whoever is in need in the local area, and beyond.

Here is a photo of Katrina as she approached the farm.

And here’s an interesting, cool-headed spiritual perspective from Yogindra Vandana, who lives on that farm, as he shares his realisations.

“As I watch the mad scramble for insurance money and government aid in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, I am amazed by the transient condition of life in the material world.

Krishna describes in the Twelfth Chapter of Srimad Bhagavad-gita that He is pleased by the devotees who are undisturbed by loss and gain. At present, I am wondering how powerful is the illusory energy of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, as I observe everyone frantically trying to overcome their loss and damages.

Let us not get lost in the madness of material pursuits. It is a jungle of false happiness and lamentation ready to pounce upon us at any moment. Better to live simply, accept the will of the Almighty, whether for loss or gain, and be always happy in Krsna Consciousness, loving devotional service to the Lord.”